The front fork bending torque testing machine is a specialized device designed to simulate the torsional loads exerted on the front fork of bicycles, electric bicycles and motorcycles during riding, s ...
The front fork bending torque testing machine is a specialized device designed to simulate the torsional loads exerted on the front fork of bicycles, electric bicycles and motorcycles during riding, such as those caused by sharp turns, single-sided forces (like bending or crossing obstacles), or heavy braking (especially with single-sided disc brakes). It is used to verify the torsional strength, fatigue resistance and structural rigidity of the front fork, particularly at the connection between the steerer tube and the crown, as well as the left and right legs, under alternating torque.
Technical parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Load Capacity | 5000 kg |
| Accuracy Class | Class 0.5 |
| Effective Force Measurement Range | 0.4%–100% (Class 0.5) |
| Force Measurement Accuracy | Within ±0.5% of indicated value |
| Tester Resolution | 1/300,000 of maximum load, non-gear, stepless, constant resolution throughout the range |
| Load Cell | Basic configuration: One tension/compression sensor (max. load) Expanded configuration: Multiple additional sensors can be added |
| Effective Test Width | 800 mm (can be widened per customer request) |
| Effective Tensile Space | 1200 mm (can be heightened per customer request) |
| Test Speed Range | 0.01–500 mm/min |
| Displacement Measurement Accuracy | Within ±0.5% of indicated value |
| Deformation Measurement Accuracy | Within ±0.5% of indicated value (large or small deformation can be optionally configured per customer request) |
| Test Table Safety Device | Electronic limit protection |
| Test Table Lifting Device | Automatic control with fast/slow speeds, jog function available |
| Test Table Return Function | Manual or automatic selection; automatically or manually returns to initial test position at maximum speed after test completion |
| Overload Protection | Machine automatically protects when load exceeds 10% of maximum capacity |
| Drive System | Servo motor + high-precision ball screw |
| Power Supply | AC 220V, 50Hz, 15A |
| Power Consumption | 1.5 kW (motors with different power ratings are configured as standard according to different force requirements) |
| Overall Dimensions (W×D×H) | 2250 × 1800 × 2300 mm |
Test Objective
The core purpose of this equipment is to verify the structural integrity of the front fork under simulated torsional conditions.
The main subjects and purposes of the investigation include:
1.Strength of the connection between the steerer tube and the crown: Verify whether the weakest part of the front fork - the welded or bonded joint between the steerer tube and the crown - shows any cracks or separation under repeated torsional loads.
2. Fork Blades Torsional Stiffness: Verify whether the torsional stiffness of the left and right fork legs is sufficient when subjected to asymmetric forces (affecting steering accuracy), and whether permanent torsional deformation occurs.
3. Dropouts area strength: Verify whether the connection between the dropout and the fork leg cracks when subjected to force on one side.
4. Disc brake mount strength: For disc brake forks, verify whether the legs around the disc brake mount are damaged due to the huge counter-torque they bear when a strong brake is applied on one side.
5. Overall structural reliability: The integrity of each connection point of the front fork after simulating tens of thousands of sharp turns or asymmetric forces.
Applicable Standards
1. International Standards:
ISO 4210-6: Bicycles - Safety requirements (Part 6: Test methods for frames and forks) - Explicitly includes fatigue testing of the front fork under torsional load.
2. Chinese National Standards:
GB 3565: Safety Requirements for Bicycles (corresponding to ISO 4210).
3. European Standards:
EN 15194: European standard for electrically assisted bicycles (the torque requirements for the front fork are usually higher because the motor adds extra weight and acceleration force).
Other: Many high-end bicycle brands (such as Trek, Specialized, and Giant) have stricter internal control standards within their enterprises.
